Duress: meaning, definitions and examples

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duress

 

[ dʊˈrɛs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

under pressure

Duress is a situation in which someone does something because they are forced to by someone else. It is often associated with threats, violence, or other forms of coercion.

Synonyms

coercion, compulsion, pressure

Examples of usage

  • She signed the contract under duress.
  • The confession was given under duress.
  • The hostages were held under duress for several days.

Translations

Translations of the word "duress" in other languages:

🇵🇹 coerção

🇮🇳 दबाव

🇩🇪 Zwang

🇮🇩 paksaan

🇺🇦 примус

🇵🇱 przymus

🇯🇵 強制

🇫🇷 contrainte

🇪🇸 coacción

🇹🇷 baskı

🇰🇷 강요

🇸🇦 إكراه

🇨🇿 nátlak

🇸🇰 nátlak

🇨🇳 胁迫

🇸🇮 prisila

🇮🇸 þvingun

🇰🇿 қысым

🇬🇪 იძულება

🇦🇿 zor

🇲🇽 coacción

Etymology

The word 'duress' originated from Middle English 'duresse', with roots in Old French 'duresse' and Latin 'duritia'. It has been used in legal contexts since the 15th century to describe situations where someone is compelled to act against their will due to threats or force.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,850, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.